1. What are morphology and syntax?
This textbook is an introduction to the study of the sub-fields of morphology and syntax. In this chapter, we begin by defining both these words and some basic concepts in both subfields. We will discuss some of the applications of morphology and syntax, and show how they interact with the larger field of linguistics. We will also introduce some study habits that will help you succeed in the study of linguistics, as well as give an overview of the citation conventions used most commonly in the field.
Learning objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
- Define the fields of morphology, syntax, and linguistics.
- Describe some applications of the study of morphology and syntax and why they are relevant.
- Define morphemes and distinguish between simplex and complex words.
- Write a bibliography entry according to the conventions in linguistics.
The study of the structure of words; the study of the systematic co-variation of form and meaning.
The study of the structure of sentences and phrases; the study of how we combine words and encode the relationships between them.
The scientific study of language.
